AIM: To evaluate the efficiency of 532nm laser photocoagulation in treating diabetic retinopathy.

METHODS: Totally 96 eyes in 48 diabetic cases, including 54 eyes with preproliferative diabetic retinopathy(PPDR), 42 eyes with proliferative retinopathy(PDR)(20 eyes with high-risk PDR, 22 eyes with non-high-risk PDR), and 21 eyes with macular edema, were treated with 532nm laser photocoagulation. According to DR stage and severity, the patients had received the treatment of subpanretinal photocoagulation(Sub-PRP), standard panretinal photocoagulation(S-PRP), extra panretinal photocoagulation(E-PRP), local photocoagulation and grid pattern photocoagulation. All cases were followed-up for 3 months to 4 years, and visual acuity and retinopathy changes were observed. Further photocoagulation was performed when necessary.

RESULTS: Visual acuity was improved or maintained in 45 eyes(83%)in the group of PPDR, 18 eyes(82%)in the group of non-high-risk PDR, 12 eyes(60%)in the group of high-risk PDR. As to the retinopathy development, edema, exudation and bleeding absorption in the retina, as well as partial or entire vanishment to retinal neovascularization, were considered as effective outcome. The effective data were 50 eyes(93%)in the group of PPDR, 19 eyes(86%)in the group of non-high-risk PDR, 13 eyes(65%)in the group of high-risk PDR.

CONCLUSION: In treating diabetic retinopathy, 532nm laser photocoagulation is effective and safe. Better effect can be achieved in early stage. Early discovery and treatment, attention to photocoagulation methods and skills, regular follow-ups and timely supplement of photocoagulation, are the key points for improving the effect of retinal photocoagulation.